Here are the top-rated dog carriers for travel, backpacks, and wraps for getting around with your puppy, even if it’s just going to the vet.
Aside from providing your dog with the best dog harnesses and a car box, a dog carrier is essential for travelling. Dog carriers provide a safe and comfortable place to travel, but not all carriers are the same. Even if the only trip your puppy has to make is to the vet, finding a dog carrier that suits their size is essential.
The best dog carriers also serve as a bed and private space for the dog at home and when travelling. Cat parents know that learning to get their cat into a carrier is challenging; the same goes for some dogs unfamiliar with carriers.
We have found the best dog carriers, including jet-set ones on the best airlines for travelling with dogs, staying in pet-friendly hotels and travelling by car. Dog carriers are essential for cars, planes, homes and beyond.
- What to look for when buying the best dog carriers
- FAQs
- Evaluation criteria
- The best dog carrier ever
- The best dog bag
- Best fabric dog carrier
- Best dog carriers. The most robust soft carrier for dogs
- The best carrier for medium-sized dogs
- Best foldable dog carrier
- The best pet carrier for small dogs
- The best rigid carrier for dogs
- The best dog carrier with a sling
What to look for when buying the best dog carriers
Comfort, safety and functionality are the top priorities when buying a dog carrier. So first, narrow down your search by determining the type of travel you need the carrier to do. Then, please pay attention to the overall design, such as whether it contains adequate space and ventilation to keep your dog cool. Following are the unique features, such as the extra storage compartments and general aesthetics.
Dogs often find it hard to accept a pet carrier, so their comfort is a top priority. Comfort can mean a cosy, fabric interior or a hard plastic, a cave-like container that the puppy considers its den. Wire cages allow dogs to see outside but are not as cosy or mobile. When lifting the crate with the dog inside, the base must provide stable support that does not bend or tip over if tipped. In addition, wire or plastic crates should be fitted with a mat to reduce slipping, thus helping dogs feel more secure.
If travelling by air, ensure the carrier is airline-approved, contains mesh windows for ventilation and leak-proof materials, and is sized for travel in the cabin or as extra luggage. The best dog carriers have multiple openings, essential for cargo and ventilation. Each space must be securely closed to prevent the animal from accidentally escaping. If your dog is a chronic chewer, opt for gnaw-proof zips.
FAQs
What are the best dog carriers?
The best carrier depends on your dog and your individual needs. It must be equipped with adequate ventilation, a sturdy construction, foolproof closures and easy access to the animal. To make cleaning easier, choose washable materials. For toy dog breeds that travel as hand luggage, a soft bag that fits into aeroplane seats and can be used as an everyday carrier is best. The dog must remain inside the carrier for the flight, so comfort is essential. Hands-free options, like backpacks and front harnesses, are handy for daily trips to the store or a stroll in the park.
Are dog harnesses a good idea?
Dog harnesses and backpacks work best for short distances, such as hiking or shopping. However, they are not as comfortable for dogs on long journeys. They are also not approved by airlines and are unsafe for car travel.
How big should a dog carrier be?
A dog carrier must be large enough for the dog to stand up and turn around. Therefore, it must be tall, long and sturdy enough to hold its weight. Measure the dog’s length from the nose to the base of the tail, then add about two inches. Add two to three centimetres for soft carriers to the height of the dog’s shoulders. For rigid carriers, add three to five inches to their size. Harnesses and backpacks can be a little tighter.
Are pet carriers safe for dogs?
Airline-approved pet carriers are the safest for air travel. In addition, some dog carriers pass crash tests when travelling by car. For optimum safety, secure your pet carrier with a safety belt.
Evaluation criteria
We have chosen the best dog carriers based on user reviews, ease of use and consideration of unique features, such as extra compartments for pet accessories. We have considered the following:
- Quality of materials
- Overall construction
- Duration over time
- Ease of use
- Security features
- Price
The best dog carrier ever
Henkelion pet carrier
Henkelion Pet Carrier is Amazon’s best-selling soft carrier, boasting 19,000 total ratings and rave reviews. The medium size is available in two sizes and is TSA-approved for pets up to 15kg travelling as cabin baggage. It is also sized to fit under the seat. The two connecting loop handles keep the crate balanced while carrying the pet, which can quickly be secured in the car with the seat belt. A shoulder strap allows you to carry the pet hands-free, or you can pass the bag strap over the handle of your wheeled bag. The interior contains a safety lanyard to hold the pet in place. The large size is ideal for pets up to 25 lbs. While this measure is not approved by airlines, it is an excellent choice for car travel.
Shares verified by Amazon reviewer Nicole N.:
“Very happy with the purchase. The zippers and everything on it are of good quality. The hard cardboard piece inside is very sturdy but absorbs kitty pee and stuff, so I took the soft sheep-like covering off the cardboard, placed a plastic bag around it to protect it, and then covered it with the sheep-like covering. I would repurchase this product.”.
Pro
- Affordable price
- Deluxe zippers and internal strap for security
- Four breathable mesh entrances
- Machine washable wool mat
- It folds down for convenient storage
- Adjustable shoulder straps and shoulder strap
- Six colours and two sizes are available
Versus
- The entire carrier is not machine washable,
- The net can be easily damaged by claws or gnawing
The best dog bag
PetAmi dog bag
Fashion-conscious dog parents love the PetAmi dog carrier. Airline-approved and sized for comfortable travel, this bag carrier turns heads on the go. The top opens for loading and features a solid mesh cover. The zips are equipped with safety buckles, and an internal drawstring attaches to the dog’s harness or collar. The sturdy double carrying strap is like carrying your favourite bag, only now your puppy is on the go, too.
Pro
- Lovely design
- Airline approved
- Zipper closure
- Opening for the animal’s head
- Includes a portable water bowl
- Side compartments for storing items
- Nine colours available
Versus
- It only fits pets up to 12lbs
- Ensure the inner tie does not accidentally wrap around the dog’s neck.
- Dogs can chew or gnaw on mesh windows
Best fabric dog carrier
Morpilot pet carrier in soft fabric
With over 5,800 ratings on Amazon, the Morpilot foldable fabric carrier is one of the most popular dog carriers. The top and front zippered openings allow for easy loading and unloading of the small dog in the cosy carrier. A soft, removable, washable mat turns the bag into a happy place for your dog to nap or enjoy a tidbit. The polyester outer material is easy to clean. The leather top handle makes it easy to carry and attach to the car. It also comes with a foldable travel bowl for water or food.
Pro
- Breathable mesh material
- Sturdy zippers keep pets safe
- Two openings
- Machine washable wool mat
- Internal safety binding
- Four colours and two sizes are available
- Front pocket for storing animals
Versus
- Some reviewers believe this carrier needs to be aired before being used
- Dogs can chew or gnaw material on the net
- Some reviewers say it doesn’t fit some airline seats.
Best dog carriers. The most robust soft carrier for dogs
Roverlund Pet carrier outside the office
The Roverlund pet carrier is made from marine and mountaineering fabric and is designed to last during all travel adventures. It comes in two sizes: small (up to 15 lbs) and large (up to 25 kg). Your puppy will travel comfortably thanks to the leak-proof bottom and the washable fleece inner litter. The pet carrier opens at the top and front for easy access, contains a safety lanyard to attach to the dog’s collar and is equipped with a sturdy carrying handle—the shoulder strap doubles as a leash. The carrier folds up for easy storage when your puppy is not on the road.
Pro
- Heavy-duty material resists wear and tear
- Ideal for all types of travel
- Suitable for airlines
- Doubles as a pet bed
- Convertible strap/leash
- Available in six colours and two sizes
- Top and front opening
Versus
- Due to the high-quality materials, this dog carrier is expensive
- Chewers could gnaw on the cover of the bed
The best carrier for medium-sized dogs
PetAmi Premium Soft-Sided Pet Travel Carrier
The PetAmi pet travel carrier is available in 13 colour variations and two sizes suitable for dogs up to 18 lbs. The sherpa-lined bed is inviting for shy animals and is ideal for travelling comfortably. Both ends feature zippered openings for easy loading, with a mesh top for added ventilation.
A zippered side opening is perfect for curious pups who like to peek out, while the internal safety strap ties up dogs to prevent accidental escapes. The hinges are also equipped with safety buckles. The pet carrier is airline-friendly, while the seat belt eyelets make it safe for car travel.
With over 9,000 five-star ratings, this dog carrier is one of the favourite pet products on Amazon. Krista, an Amazon Verified Reviewer, says: “I love this carry bag. We use it every day. Everywhere we go. The product is as described. I recommend it to all my friends and fa6. I do think it’s worth the price. The material is thick and sturdy. Easy to wipe clean from muddy paws. Convenient pockets. It’s just all-around worth it. Thank you. “.
Pro
- Durable, oversized construction for medium-sized pets
- Zipper closures
- Compartments for storing animals
- Airline approved
- Nine colours and two sizes are available
- Includes travel water bowl
Versus
- Some reviewers believe the soft sides can give in to smaller pets
Best foldable dog carrier
Pet Magasin Foldable Pet Travel Bed
Portable and lightweight, this travel bed is a great option for taking your little pet to the vet or groomer. It boasts the characteristics of both soft and rigid carriers, with flexible sides and a solid top and bottom to ensure stability. In addition, being foldable, it is convenient to store in the car or home. Large ventilation holes surround the crate, while the extra solid zippers and heavy-duty breathable mesh make it safe for your pet.
Pro
- Foldable design
- Innovative and resistant structure
- Ventilation on all sides
- Wide top opening
- Sturdy carrying handle
Versus
- Beware of weight restrictions: heavy pets may open the entire zipper.
- It is unavailable in multiple sizes, making this carrier ideal for small pets.
- It can only be carried by hand.
The best pet carrier for small dogs
Wild One travel carrier
The Wild One travel crate suits small dogs up to 16 lbs in three trendy colours. Perfect for those travelling by plane with a dog at their side, the modular pet carrier is airline-friendly and fits into aeroplane seats. The hinges snap shut for added security inside.
When you’re not on the road, you can fold the inner cushion to become a comfortable dog bed (no dog food is needed with this carrier!) It is machine washable. The exterior is best cleaned by hand and dries flat. Then, with a comfortable double handle and a shoulder strap that acts as a leash, you and your dog can travel in style with this pet carrier.
Pro
- Elegant and airline-friendly carrier for small dogs
- It turns into a dog house
- Extra compartments for storing the dog
- Light
- Luggage strap and adjustable carrying strap
- Machine washable inner cushion
- Three colours available
Versus
- Ideal for small pets only
- Some reviewers find that the hinges are sometimes difficult to manoeuvre
- Due to its extra features, this dog carrier is a bit expensive.
The best rigid carrier for dogs
Petmate Vari dog kennel
This rigid carrier lasts for years thanks to its sturdy construction. Available in six sizes, the smaller option is suitable for pets up to 10 pounds and is airline-approved. The 24-inch size is suitable for pets weighing 10 and 20 kg and adaptable to airlines. Finally, the largest size can hold dogs weighing 70-90kg and is approved by airlines for carrying cargo. The steel wire front door opens in two directions, and the solid construction keeps dogs safe on any adventure.
Pro
- Resistant structure
- Easy to assemble
- Ideal for home or travel, including aeroplanes
- Easy to clean
- Approved as extra baggage for large dogs
- Available in six sizes
Versus
- There are no extra compartments for storing items
- Heavy to carry with large animals
- Some reviewers find door latching on larger pet carriers challenging to use
The best dog carrier with a sling
SCOBUTY small Sling Carrier
For parents of always-on-the-go pets who take their puppy for a walk or grocery shopping, the SCOBUTY Dog sling receives top marks from Amazon shoppers. This hands-free carrier is available in three sizes and 12 colours and is a top seller with over 3,700 ratings.
Made of breathable mesh and leather, the harness offers resistance and acts as an aesthetic and fun product for the dog. Reinforced buckles, improved hinges, a safety clip and adjustable neck closure, keep your puppy in place while allowing a great view of your journey.
Pro
- Durable safety zippers
- Adjustable neck opening
- Comfortable wide shoulder strap
- Internal safety strap
- Available in 12 colours
Versus
- Size is inappropriate, as the opening can constrict the animal’s neck.
- Ideal for smaller dogs only and daily errands
When choosing a dog carrier, it is essential to consider your dog’s size, breed, and personality. You should also consider the materials the carrier is made from and how easy it is to clean.
Here are some additional tips for choosing a dog carrier:
- Measure your dog. Make sure to measure your dog before you buy a carrier. This will help you ensure that the carrier is the right size.
- Consider your dog’s breed. Some breeds, such as large and deep-chested dogs, are more prone to breathing problems. You may choose a carrier with mesh front or side panels for ventilation.
- Consider your dog’s personality. Some dogs are more anxious than others. If you have an anxious dog, you may want to choose an enclosed carrier on all sides.
- Think about the materials. Some materials are easier to clean than others. If you have a dog that sheds a lot, you may want to choose a carrier made from a material that is easy to vacuum.
- Consider the price. Dog carriers can range in price from a few dollars to hundreds. Choose a carrier that fits your budget.
You can find the perfect dog carrier for your furry friend with some research.
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